Can You Sue for Poor Workmanship in Colorado
Posted May 22, 2026 in Uncategorized
Poor workmanship on a construction project causes far more problems than just an ugly edifice or a lack of curb appeal. In many cases, poor workmanship can be dangerous, rendering the structure fundamentally unsafe or resulting in a failed code inspection.
Whether you’re a homeowner with a shoddy new house or a commercial property owner who cannot lease their space due to poor workmanship, you have options under the law to file a suit for damages. The process can get complicated, though, especially in cases where “poor workmanship” is more subjective than objectively clear code violations. The guidance of an experienced Denver, CO construction litigation lawyer is essential in these matters. At Volpe Law LLC, we handle claims like this frequently and can help quantify the impact the poor construction or inferior materials caused you.
What Qualifies as Poor Workmanship?
Poor workmanship generally refers to construction that falls below accepted industry standards or fails to meet the terms outlined in a contract. This can include structural defects, improper installation, code violations, or the use of substandard materials. Many minor flaws won’t reach the threshold of serious enough to file a legal action, but when the work significantly affects safety, functionality, or value, then litigation may be the only way to effectively resolve it.
If it’s clear that the workmanship violates specific contract terms, such as using substandard materials without written consent, or failing to meet the agreed project requirements, the property owner may pursue a legal remedy through a breach of contract claim. Consulting with a construction law attorney can help clarify the best course of action.
Legal Grounds for an Inferior Workmanship Claim
Breach of contract is one way to address poor workmanship. If a contractor fails to perform the specific terms of the contract, or if the workmanship or materials are clearly inferior to those stipulated in the contract, the other party likely has grounds to file a lawsuit.
Another legal option is to file a negligence claim. Contractors, subcontractors, and other construction professionals are expected to meet a standard duty of care to ensure the safety of people using the structure. Failure to meet an accepted standard of safety and performance can open the contractor up to liability.
Homeowners have an option, under Colorado’s Construction Defect Action Reform Act (CDARA), to file a claim up to two years later for defects in the structure. Many claims involve issues not readily visible but which become apparent over time, such as foundation problems or water intrusion.
In general, the statute of limitations for initiating legal action for a construction complaint is 2 years from the time the defect is discovered or should have been discovered. However, the state also has a statute of repose, which limits claims to six years after the completion of construction (this period may extend to eight years in certain situations). Missing these deadlines can mean losing your right to recover damages entirely
Successfully Collecting Damages Often Requires Legal Assistance
Building a case for damages requires strong knowledge of Colorado contract laws, construction law, and CDARA. At Volpe Law LLC, we bring all three of these, plus considerable firm resources, to litigate poor workmanship claims on behalf of clients like you. Contact our Denver construction litigation lawyer today to learn more about the legal options available in your situation.